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P.A. Parkland Health Region cautions travellers about Zika virus

Feb 5, 2016 | 4:24 PM

The Zika virus has been making its way into areas it’s never been found before; areas that could even include Prince Albert.

There have been no reported cases in Saskatchewan, but according to the Public Health Agency of Canada there have been travel related cases within the country. Zika is typically spread through a mosquito not native to Canada.

People – especially travellers – must always remain vigilant, Dr. Khami Chokani, medical health officer with the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region said.

“There is a need to ensure, as part of my responsibilities of communicable diseases, that people are aware that there is a risk and to not assume that you can’t get it,” Chokani said.

The Aedes mosquito, which is known to carry the Zika virus, has not been a concern in Canada, but that’s not to say it never will be.

The virus has spread significantly since it was first discovered in 1927.

“It has moved from a small area in Uganda, to being world-wide,” Chokani said “…there has to be a way it has moved because it couldn’t have used the same mosquito.”

The same mosquito that carries the Zika virus can carry Dengue fever and the Chikungunya virus.

Chokani said it is important to talk to a doctor if you feel unwell or if a rash occurs after travelling. He said travellers should be careful to take appropriate insect control measures, such as using DEET. Those who are, or plan to get pregnant should exercise caution.

The virus is thought to cause birth defects in the fetuses of women who become infected during pregnancy.

There is also the risk of person-to-person transmission. A sexually transmitted case of Zika virus was recently confirmed in Texas.

On Friday, Feb. 5, Canadian Blood Services implemented a three week waiting period for people who have travelled outside of Canada, the U.S., and Europe to be able to give blood. This is to prevent the risk of spreading the Zika virus through blood transfusion.

 

jsperling@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jnsperling